5 Things to Do in Orange County
Home to Santa Ana, Irvine, Huntington Beach and Anaheim, Orange County, found in California, boasts a population of 3m people, making it is the 6th most populous county in the US. It is a popular tourist destination and has top attractions that include Knott’s Berry Farm, Disneyland and a host of pristine beaches.
Orange County Attractions
If you are planning to vacation in Orange County, here are the things to do:
1. Go Hiking
Orange County has some very good hiking trails. While some of them can be accessed easily, for instance, El Moro Canyon Trail, others are more difficult to get to. These include the Holy Jim Falls trail which requires painstaking drive on a 5-mile dirt road to access. Irrespective of the option you choose, you can be guaranteed to savor California’s rich and unspoiled nature.
2. Spend a night at the Crystal Cove Beaches
There are a couple of old-fashioned beach cottages and they are located right in the heart of Crystal Cove State Park. The Park was established around the 1930s. Although it has since been renovated, you can still the beach’s historic, low-maintenance beach vibe charm. Spots are taken up quickly, which is why it’s advisable to book well in advance. Because the cottages are a little old, you may find that it has a few plumbing or other issues. If that is the case, don’t hesitate to call an expert plumber or a drain cleaner.
3. Shop till You Drop at Fashion Island
Even if you are not a shopping enthusiast, I bet you will fall in love with Fashion Island, located in New Port Beach. Part of the reason for this is because it’s a beautiful mall that truly gives you the sense of “you’ve arrived.” You could also opt to head straight to South Coast Plaza located in Costa Mesa, and it’s the largest mall in not only OC but also the whole west coast. While it lacks the outdoor vibe, there is no denying that it’s still an iconic landmark in Orange County.
4. Attend a Mass at Mission San Juan Capistrano
Established for the first time in 1775, the Mission San Juan Capistrano is among the first California Missions. Visiting the San Juan Capistrano Mission attracts a fee, but you can attend Sunday masses at Mission Basilica. Early morning weekday is held daily in the Basilica and Serra Chapel. Additionally, there is a special prayer room in Sera Chapel which is dedicated to Saint Peregrine.
Because this is religious service, it’s considered inappropriate to walk around and take pictures. You need not be a Catholic to attend the masses, but don’t take communion if you are a non-catholic.
5. The Old Town Courthouse Museum
Located in Santa Ana and built in 1901, the Old Courthouse Museum is not only the oldest courthouse here in Southern California, but is also free to visit. There is a library of Pacific Coast Archaeological Society, the Orange County History Center and Orange County Archives inside the museum.
Visit Orange County, CA
Orange County is always bustling with exciting activities. For visitors coming here for the first time, there is a lot in store for you. Whether it’s hiking in its unforgiving trails or attending a church service at Mission San Juan Capistrano, you can be sure your plate will be full in terms of fun activities.